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Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

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  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is a soft, buttery loaf that captures the nostalgic flavor of an old-fashioned donut in every slice. With a tender crumb, cinnamon-sugar center, and crisp topping, this easy, no-yeast recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, rested for 5 mins)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (optional, for layering)
  • Cinnamon sugar (for topping – approx. ¼ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

  3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.

  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

  6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with brown sugar and/or cinnamon sugar for a layered effect. Top with remaining batter.

  7. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  8. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then brush top with melted butter and generously coat with cinnamon sugar.

  9. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.


Notes

  • To make muffins, reduce bake time to 18–22 minutes.
  • For extra richness, substitute sour cream for buttermilk.
  • Add chopped nuts or swap cinnamon for chai or pumpkin spice for flavor variations.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months.